A Celebration of Faith: Honouring Fr Des on his Golden Jubilee
Michaelmas Fair 2024
Teens Smart—Healthy Teens Project 2024
Tributes to the Revd Canon Ian Lam & the Very Revd Robert Willis
Remembrance Sunday
MFMW Charity Walk 2024
Blessing of Animals
Celebrating St John’s Cathedral
A Priest Among Us: Fr Robert’s 41-Year Journey of Love and Compassion
Seven Churches of Asia
Where Stories Come Alive: The Spirit of LEC Playback Theatre
The True Christmas Among Us
Dr Alex Li: New Director of St John’s Cathedral Counselling Service
New Face at the Cathedral Office
Apocalypse Now?
What are we reading?
Advent & Christmas Services at St John’s & Daughter Churches Council Away Day
DEAN’SMESSAGE
DearFriends,
Peacebewithyou!
As we navigate the changing seasons and the unpredictable weather patterns brought on by global warming, it serves as a reminder of how we must adapt to new realities. November typhoons, once a rarity in Hong Kong, now challenge us to remain resilient and united as a community.
I thank God for the 175 Anniversary celebration of St John’s Cathedral onSunday15September.WehadaThanksgivingServicecelebratedand preachedbyBishopMatthiasDer,withArchbishopAndrewChangiving the final blessing. The service was well attended by numerous congregation members as well as distinguished guests, and we all enjoyedthefantasticsacredmusicarrangements.
That same evening, we gathered for a Gala Dinner at Maxim’s Palace in Hong Kong City Hall, where the sound of cheers filled the air during the joy-filledeveningofdeliciousfoodandlovelyfellowship.Iamparticularly thankful to Martin Matsui, the chairman of the 175 Anniversary organising committee; Grace Fung, the Head of the Flower Guild; Felix Yeung, our Director of Music; and all the dedicated sisters and brothers in Christ who contributed tirelessly and generously to the celebration activities.
On Saturday 26 October, we successfully hosted the Michaelmas Fair 2024.DespitethechallengesposedbyTyphoonSignalNo.3fromTrami, our spirit remained unshaken. Thanks to the swift actions of the MichaelmasFairCommittee,ledbyPatrickFung,wequicklyadaptedour plans. I commend our resourceful volunteers who creatively moved their fundraising booths indoors right after the Opening Ceremony, which was honoured by Bishop Matthias and our Guest of Honour, Mrs Lynnette Tiong. Even amidst life’s storms, we find that the grace and blessingsofGodcarryusthrough.
Looking ahead, the Advent season and Christmas celebrations this year willreturntothecherishedtraditionsweenjoyedbeforethepandemic. We pray earnestly that God will bless us in our preparations for these important services celebrating the nativity of our Saviour and the variousliturgiesleadinguptothismajorcelebration.Dearreaders,allof you are cordially invited to join us for ALL these services and liturgies startingfromtheFirstSundayofAdvent.
The theme of the Cathedral for the year 2025 will be ‘Hospitality and a WelcomingChurch’.Let’sprepareourselvesduringtheAdventseasonto welcome all the new friends and visitors we will have in the upcoming yearandbeyond.
May God protect us and be with us even during typhoons in this rare season.
On the night of Monday 2 December, we gathered at St John’s Cathedral to honour Fr Des’s Golden Jubilee, a remarkable milestone celebrating 50 years of dedicated serviceinthepriesthood.Theeveningwasfilledwithjoy, reflection, and gratitude, as we recognised a life committedtoGodandthecommunity.
from all walks of life, whether mingling with workers in local pubs or engaging with diplomats in consulates. His enthusiasm for helping othershasleftanindeliblemarkonthecommunitieshehastouched.
Fr Des’s journey into the priesthood began at a young age in Perth, WesternAustralia.Inspiredbyapriestinhislocalparish,hepursued his faith passionately despite not growing up in a church-going family.Hisearlyinterestsinsportsshowcasedhiscompetitivespirit, but the call to ministry always beckoned. After initially pursuing a career as a watchmaker, he remained devoted to social ministry, particularly during the turbulent Vietnam War, where he bravely refusedconscription,standingfirminhisconvictions.
Throughout his 50 years of ministry, Fr Des has served in diverse settings—frombustlingcityparishestoruralcongregations—always adapting and thriving.Hehasauniqueabilitytoconnectwithpeople
During the celebration, Bishop Matthias Der highlighted Fr Des’s genuine love for people, noting how he uses socialoccasionsnotjust for enjoyment but as opportunities for evangelismandpastoralcare. His ability to listen and share God’s love reflects the qualities of a good shepherd, always seeking to guide others towards faith. Bishop Matthiasalsoemphasisedthesignificance of Fr Des’s enthusiasm, remarking, ‘Not every priest can celebrate 50 years of priesthood, and it is a testament to the ministry that youhaveprovidedamongus’.
Fr Des reflected on his experiences with humility and a lighthearted spirit. ‘Fifty years ago, if you had told me I would be in Hong Kong makingaspeechlikethis,Iwouldhaveresponded,“Idon’tknow!”’he remarked. He candidly acknowledged the challenges of ministry, noting,‘Youhavegoodparishes,youhavebadparishes,andsadlyyou havegrumpypeoplethatyou’vegottodealwith’.Yet,heemphasised thatthegreatestjoyshavecomefromservingthepeopleofGodand fosteringcommunity.
One memorable story he recounted involved a difficult time in DiscoveryBaywhenthecommunitywasfacingjoblossesduetothe new airport’s construction. ‘I looked through the books in the study andsawascriptforamusicalcalledTheWitness’,heexplained.This inspired a collaboration with various congregations to produce the musical, bringing the community together and providing a tool for evangelism.
Fr Des’s ministry has not only been about joyful moments but also about walking alongside people in their grief. He reflected on the privilegeofcelebratingfuneralsandsupportingfamiliesduringtheir most challenging times. ‘It’s the greatest job in the world’, he said, expressinghisdeepappreciationforthecallinghehasembraced.
Despitefacingpersonalhealthchallengesinrecentyears,FrDeshas maintained an unwavering faith and a joyful spirit. His resilience servesasatestamenttohischaracter,inspiringthosearoundhim.As BishopMatthiasstatedonthatmemorablenight,‘Godhasbeenfaithfultoyou,andyouhavebeenfaithfultoGod’.
The warmth of fellowship filled the room during the celebration. Fr Des’s gift for building connections extends well beyond the church; he has nurtured relationships with various communities, including diplomats and social enterprises, showcasing his deep commitment toservice.Bytheevening’send,weexpressedourheartfeltgratitude for Fr Des’s unwavering dedication over the past 50 years. His ministry has not only enriched countless lives but has also strengthenedtheveryfabricofourcommunity.
Fr Des, thank you for your exemplary service, infectious joy, and enduring faith. May you continue to inspire others in the years to come, and may your journey ahead be filled with good health and youthfulexuberance.Here’stomanymoreyearsofministryandthe joythatcomesfromservingGodandhispeople.
Michaelmas Michaelmas 2024Fair Fair
The Michaelmas Fair 2024 has once again been a resounding success! Despite some outdoor activities being suspended due to inclement weather, the spirit of the day remained vibrant as community members cametogethertocelebrate.
Numerous parishioners and visitors enjoyed a variety of indoor attractions,includinggreatbargainsatvariousstalls,crafts,and deliciousfoodthatshowcasedlocaldelights.Theatmospherewas filledwithlaughter,highlightingthestrongsenseofcommunity that defines our gatherings. The day was concluded with an exciting raffle draw, and we would like to congratulate all the winners! A heartfelt thank you goes to all our sponsors for their generoussupport.
We would also like to thank all the volunteers and participants who contributed their time and effort to make this event possible.Yourdedicationensuredthateveryonehadawonderful experience,regardlessoftheweather.Aswelookbackontheday, it is clear that the Michaelmas Fair continues to be a cherished occasionforourcommunity,bringingpeopletogetherinjoyand celebration. We look forward to next year’s fair, where we hope forevenmoresunshineandfun!
TEENS SMART
Healthy Teens Project 2024
RAY WONG & MORITZ LEUNG
Text by / Project Officer & Intern of LEC
Organised by St John’s Cathedral Life Enrichment Centre (LEC)andfundedbyStJohn’sCathedralEndowmentFund, the Teens Smart—Healthy Teens Project is a two-year initiative aimed at promoting the physical, psychological, social, and spiritual health of teenagers. Teenagers are often exposed to electronic devices for chatting, gaming with friends, or watching video clips. Overexposure to the internet can lead to addiction, which may significantly affect their development. This project not only aims to preventinternetaddictionandassistthoseinneedbutalso broadens participants’ skills, teaching them ways to lead healthier lives. To promote the healthy use of the internet among teenagers, the project offers a variety of activities, including awareness talks, internship programmes, healthyactivities,andsupportgroups.
In the internship programme, 12 participants attended a series of training sessions on presentation skills, time management, financial management, social skills, and career planning. The training provided valuable opportunities for teenagers to gain a better understanding of society beyond school. Participants engaged in various internship organisations to gain work experience and better adapt to society. They assisted in different roles, including bookstore assistant, café assistant, teen activities assistant, and campsite assistant. Through these positions, they gained valuable insights into the organisation, improved their communication skills by practising customer service, and enhancedtheirproblem-solvingabilitiesbyworkingindependently. Almost all participants reported improvements in their communicationskillsandfeltmorewillingtoengagewithdifferent people. Throughout the internship programme, mentors accompanied participants in training sessions, providing guidance and suggestions. Mentors also shared their own work and life experiences,andtheteenagersagreedthattheencouragementand supportfrommentorshelpedboosttheirconfidence.
In the healthy activities, participants had the opportunity to experienceadiverserangeofoptions,fromcalligraphyandyogato volunteering and visiting Foodpanda. There was also a coffee workshopconductedbyavisuallyimpairedbarista.Theseactivities not only helped teenagers discover their interests beyond mobile phonesbutalsospreadapositivemessagetothem.Oneofthemain reasons teenagers often use their phones is boredom; they frequentlyfindthemselveslyinginbed,pullinguptheblanket,and gettinglostinaseaofreelsandposts.Tomitigatethistendency,itis essential to engage in activities that spark personal interest, whether it’s baking cookies or practising magic tricks. These activities represent an excellent choice for instigating positive changesintheirlives.Accordingtoasurveyconductedthroughout the programme, over 80% of participants found these activities to bemoremeaningfulthanusingtheirphones.Thisengagementcan helpteenagersreducetheirinternetusageduetoboredom.
Stay close to the Life Enrichment Centre for updates
JobinternshipatStJohn’sCathedralBookstore
Skill-trainingsessionsformentorsandmentees
Coffeeworkshoptaughtbyvisuallyimpairedbarista
Chung
Jodie
“I decided to participate in this programme because I wanted to expand my knowledge and skills so that I could prepare myself to become a teacher in the future. I also wanted to step out of my comfortzoneandmeetnewpeople.
Throughout this programme, I gained many valuable skills, such as teamwork, time management, and problem-solving abilities. Additionally, I experienced personal growth, enhancing my selfconfidenceandlearningtoadapttovarioussituations.Participatingin this programme enriched my working skills and fostered lasting friendships and connections. The environment encouraged openminded communication and the sharing of ideas, which was instrumentalinourcollectivesuccess.Lookingback,Irealisethatthe experiencesIgainedwerenotjustaboutachievingspecificoutcomes, but also about the journey of growth and learning alongside others. Overall, this programme was a transformative experience that has positivelyinfluencedmypersonalandprofessionaldevelopment.”
Wan
Wanny
“IhavebeenattendingStJohn’sCathedralSundaySchooleversinceI was three. I never knew about LEC until one day when my mum showed me a post about the Teens Smart—Healthy Teens Project. After scrolling through a few other interesting posts made by LEC, I decidedtosignupfortheprojectandgiveitatry.
After a few training sessions, it was finally time for me to start the internship.Thisexperiencemarkedthebeginningofmydiscoveryof anewinterestindesign.Aftercreatingthenametags,Iwasfortunate to be assigned to design additional items, such as posters and Tshirts.
My most memorable moment at LEC was on the last day of my internship.WhileIwasstillworkingonthecomputer,theysuddenly asked me to follow them to an area where a cake with my name piped on it was waiting. They congratulated me on completing the programme. At that moment, I felt incredibly thankful and touched. Overall, from discovering a new interest to learning how to communicateandengageinconversationswithothers,Ihavegained a lot from this programme, thanks to the people at the LEC who createditandguidedmethroughoutmyexperience.”
“I am delighted to have joined the Internship Programme during my summer holiday. Initially, these sessions seemed unrelated to the internship; however, I quickly realised that their teachings can be appliedatanytimeinmylife.
AkeypointIlearnedduringthesesessionsisthattoimprove,weshould dedicatetimetoenhanceourselves.Asstudents,weoftenprocrastinate andleaveourhomeworkuntilthelastminute.Theseurgenttaskskeep us busy, causing us to spend all our time simply completing them. For example, learning a new language might seem non-urgent and unimportant, as it is unlikely to be beneficial in the short term. However,inthelongrun,itcanbeadvantageousfortravelling.
During the internship stage, I worked at the LEC. This was my first internship,andIamgladitwasthere.Itookonvariousroles,including designingsocialmediaposts,videoediting,andassistinginworkshops. However, what I learned most wasn’t about the tasks I completed, but ratherhowtocommunicateandinteractwithothers.Atmyinternship, I constantly interacted with people, sought guidance on my work, and got to know my colleagues. Unbeknownst to me, I actually became moretalkativeandengagedatwork.”
Moritz Leung Ben Lee
“InJulyandAugustofthisyear,Ihadtheprivilegeofparticipatinginthe Teens Smart—Healthy Teens Project organised by LEC. Initially, my purpose in joining this activity was to experience a real work environmentwhilelearningdifferentskillstoenrichmyself.However,I soondiscoveredthatwhatIlearnedduringtheactivityfarexceededmy initialexpectations.
During the training, the facilitators used their own experiences to highlight key details to pay attention to while working. For example, when introducing products to clients, it’s important to condense the contentintothreekeypointsandconveyitconciselyandclearlywithin a limited timeframe. It’s also important to be aware of your surroundingswhileworkingandtofindtoolsthathelpexpressyourself more effectively. Apart from this, the programme not only provided work experience but also imparted valuable life lessons to the participants. Under the mentor’s guidance, participants gradually understood what kind of life they wanted to have. I started to plan my lifeundertheirguidanceandreconsidermyfuturecareerpath.”
MEMORYOF In loving
THE REVD CANON IAN LAM
1948-2024
I was heartbroken to hear of the passing of our beloved teacher, theRevdCanonIanLam.Hismotherchurch,theHKSKHChurchof theGoodShepherdinToKwaWan,isalsomyhomeparish.FrIan was a chaplain at St John’s from 1975 to 1978. I first met Fr Ian in 2004 while preparing for my ordination training at Ming Hua Theological College. Although I was nervous, he quickly put me at easeduringourmeeting.
During my nine-month internship at St Mary’s Church, Fr Ian always made time on Sunday mornings to chat with me, helping me adjust to my new role. I vividly remember asking him for final words of wisdom asIfinishedmystudies.Hesimplysaid,‘Aclergyneedstohavecommon sense’.Inaworldwherethisisoftenlacking,hiswordsremainaguiding lightforus.
Though Fr Ian has returned to the Lord, his presence will always resonatewithus.Wewillstrivetohonourhisteachingsandmakegood use of the ‘common sense’ he valued so highly. May Fr Ian rest in the Lord’slovingembraceandenjoytheresurrectedlifeinhisglory.
THE VERY REVD ROBERT WILLIS
1947-2024
As we reflect on the rich tapestry of our community at St John’s Cathedral, we are reminded of the profound impact thattheVeryRevdRobertWillis,DeanEmeritusofCanterbury Cathedral,hashadonourcongregation.Overtheyears,Dean Robert visited our cathedral multiple times, each occasion leavinganindeliblemarkonourparishionersandourshared spiritualjourney.
His whimsical morning devotions in the ‘Garden Congregation’ during the pandemic provided comfort and hope during a challenging time, reminding us of the power of faith. We celebrate hisremarkablelegacyofcompassionandservice.Asweremember Dean Robert, we hold his spirit close, knowing he will continue to inspireusatStJohn’sCathedral.
MFMW Charity Walk 2024 MFMW Charity Walk 2024 A Resounding Success!
Community Relations Officer of MFMW
We are delighted to share that the MFMW Charity Walk,heldonSunday13October,wasaremarkable success! This year, the event attracted over 350 enthusiastic participants who gathered at the historic St John’s Cathedral at 11am. The atmosphere was filled with excitement and anticipation as the Dean offered a heart-felt blessing to commence the walk. His words resonated with the spirit of community and compassion that defines our mission, setting a positivetoneforthedayahead.
Participants embarked on their journey in organised batches, with half of the group walking towards the scenic Victoria Peak, a populardestinationknownforitsbreathtakingviewsofHongKong. The other half concluded their route at the Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens, a serene environment that provided a perfect backdrop for reflection and camaraderie. This dual-route approachnotonlycateredtodifferentpreferencesbutalsoallowed participants to experience the beauty of Hong Kong while supportinganoblecause.
Theclosingceremonytookplacefrom1pmto2pmintheLiHallofSt John’sCathedral.Approximately150attendeesincludingrepresentatives from our sponsors and members of the Advisory Board gatheredtocelebratetheday’sachievements.Theceremonybegan with welcoming remarks from Cynthia Tellez, General Manager of the Mission For Migrant Workers. Her speech highlighted the importanceofcommunityinvolvementandtheimpactofcollective effortsinsupportingmigrantdomesticworkers.
Following her remarks, attendees were treated to captivating cultural performances that showcased the rich diversity of our community. These performances not only entertained but also served as a reminder of the vibrant cultures that migrant workers bring to Hong Kong. The event culminated in the presentation of awards to our sponsors and fundraising individuals and teams, recognisingtheirinvaluablecontributionstothecause.
JOHANNIE TONG
Text by /
WewerehonouredtohaveSwirePropertiesasourBronzeSponsor thisyear.MsMayLam-Kobayashi,DeputyDirectorofPublicAffairs at Swire Properties, accepted the award on behalf of her organisation. In her inspiring message, she emphasised the importance of supporting migrant domestic workers, who play a vital role in local households. Her words underscored the need for continuedadvocacyandsupportforthisoften-overlookedsegment ofourcommunity.
In addition to the walk, we set up booths offering free wellness services to over 280 migrant domestic workers. Thanks to our service sponsors, many of whom are long-term partners, we provided a range of services including free yoga sessions, basic health checks, engaging games, gifts, and massages for pain relief. These wellness initiatives were designed to promote physical and mental well-being, recognising the challenges faced by migrant workersintheirdailylives.
This year, we were thrilled to see increased participation from various communities, including the Swire Community Ambassadors and employees from Bank of America, Zurich Insurance, CN Group, and Innovations. Their involvement not only enrichedtheeventbutalsodemonstratedastrongcommitmentto corporate social responsibility. We also received tremendous support from students and volunteers from the Chinese International School, Hong Kong International School, Malvern College, the SJC Life Enrichment Centre, and the SJC Among Us volunteer team. Their enthusiasm and dedication were instrumentalinensuringthesmoothexecutionoftheevent.
The commitment and generosity of the public have significantly contributed to the event’s success and have brought us closer to achieving our mission. Together, we are promoting diversity and inclusion while raising essential funds to continue our support for migrant domestic workers in need. The funds raised during this eventwillgodirectlytowardsprogrammesthatprovidelegalassistance, health services, and educational opportunities for migrant workers,helpingtoempowerthemandimprovetheirqualityoflife.
Weextendourheartfeltgratitudetoallparticipants,sponsors,and volunteers for their invaluable support in making this event a success. Your commitment to this cause is a testament to the strength of our community. We look forward to seeing you at our future events as we continue this important journey together, fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment for all. Together,wecanmakeadifference!
MICHAEL
175 Years of Grace and Community
On Sunday 15 September, St John’s Cathedral marked its 175 Anniversary with a day filled with gratitude, worship, and fellowship. The celebrations began with a beautiful Thanksgiving Eucharist, presided over and preached by Bishop Matthias Der. The congregation, including parishioners and distinguished guests, gathered to give thanks fortheCathedral’srichhistoryanditsunwaveringmission toservethecommunity.Theservicewasfurtherenriched by inspiring music that lifted everyone’s hearts in praise andthanksgiving.
We would also like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to Ms GraceFung,theHeadoftheFlowerGuild,andherteamfor their beautiful floral arrangements, which added a special touchtothecelebration.
The festivities continued in the evening with a Thanksgiving Gala Dinner, where the community came together once more to share in the joy of this momentous occasion. The evening was filled with laughter,fellowship,anddeliciousfood.Ahighlightofthedinnerwas the stunning anniversary cake, generously sponsored by one of our parishioners. Shaped like the Cathedral, it served as a perfect tribute to our rich heritage and symbolised the unity and love of our community.
This 175thanniversary celebration was a testament to the spirit of unity,gratitude,andlovethatdefinesStJohn’sCathedral.Aswelook tothefuture,maywecontinuetogrowtogetherinfaith,service,and fellowship, carrying forward the mission that has guided us for 175 years.
Fr Robert’s 41-Year Journey of Love and Compassion
Fr Robert’s journey into the priesthood is a testament to the profound impact of faith, community, and compassion. Born in Liverpool to a mixed religious background,hefoundhiscallingamidstthemelodiesofchoral music during his teenage years. Although he had drifted fromchurchattendance,asingleeveningofchoralevensong reignited his connection to faith, leading him to becomeadedicatedserverathislocalparish.
At just 17, Fr Robert felt a pull towards the priesthood. Despite the challenges of pursuing his A-levels, he embarked on a transformative journey that included two years of service with the homeless in London. This experience not only deepened his faith butalsoshapedhisunderstandingofcompassionandcommunity service.
Fr Robert’s early ministry was marked by a significant chapter duringtheAIDSepidemicinthelate1980s.Servingaschaplainfor one of the first AIDS units in Manchester, he witnessed the struggles and triumphs of those affected by the disease. His ministry became a beacon of hope during a time of fear and misunderstanding, as he provided comfort and support to those whofeltostracisedandalone.
One of Fr Robert’s most unforgettable experiences occurred early inhisministrywhenhevisitedayoungmandiagnosedwithAIDS. Theyoungman,only25yearsold,wasgravelyillandconfinedtoan isolation unit due to complications from the disease. As Fr Robert entered the room, dressed in protective gear that made him feel like a ‘spaceman’, he was struck by the profound love and connectionintheroom.Theyoungman’sonlycompanionwashis grandmother in ordinary clothes, who chose to stay by his side despitetherisksinvolved.
Fr Robert recalls the poignant scene: the young man was terrified and near death, yet his grandmother held his hand, providing a sense of comfort and human connection that transcendedthesterileenvironment.Thisimageofunwavering love moved Fr Robert deeply. It served as a powerful reminderthat,inmomentsofdespair,thesimpleactofbeing presentcanbemoremeaningfulthananywordsofcomfort.
Overwhelmed by the stark contrast between his protective attire and the genuine compassion of the grandmother, Fr Robert removed his protective gear, keeping only his mask on. He wanted to bring a sense of humanity to the situation, to show that he was there not just as a priest but as a fellow humanbeing.Headministeredthelastriteswithaheartfull of vulnerability, recognising that true ministry often lies in the willingness to share in another’s pain and to simply be present.
This experience profoundly shaped Fr Robert’s understanding of his role as a priest—highlighting that vulnerability and empathyareessentialtoministry.Itreinforcedhisbeliefthat being a priest means being human first, acknowledging the pain of others, and offering companionship in their darkest moments.
Ashecelebrates41yearsinthepriesthood,FrRobertreflects on the countless souls he has encountered. He expresses immense gratitude for the privilege of being a priest, emphasising that it is the relationships formed and the shared humanity that truly define his ministry. He encourages aspiring priests to offer their authentic selves to God,embracingbothstrengthsandimperfections.
Fr Robert’s journey is a beautiful reminder of the power of love, compassion, and community. His story, especially the unforgettable moment with the young man and his grandmother, inspires not only fellow priests but also anyone seekingtomakeadifferenceintheworld.Aswecelebratehis remarkable41yearsofpriesthood,wehonourhisunwavering
SEVEN CHURCHES OF ASIA: St John’s Cathedral Pilgrimage to Turkey 2024
In the last week of September, 31 adventurousmembersandfriendsofSt John’sCathedralgatheredinTurkeyfor a pilgrimage to the Seven Churches of AsiafromtheBookofRevelation.When Revelation was written almost 2,000 years ago, ‘Asia’ was a province of the Roman Empire, located in what is now the Aegean coastal region of western Turkey.
Church buildings did not exist in the 1t century. The small Christian communities in these cities met in each other’s homes. Our journey was to visit the sites of the seven churches,tostepintothepagesoftheBookof Revelation, and to encounter the world of the early Christians to whom that strange and astonishingbookisaddressed.
Our pilgrimage was enriched by Sonat, our wonderful Turkish tour guide, and the Revd James Buxton, the Anglican chaplain in Izmir (ancient Smyrna). With good humour and his extensive knowledge of the region, James led us in a bible study at each of the seven sites, exploring the challenging and pithy sermons addressedtoeachofthesevenchurches.
So we travelled, worshipped, prayed, laughed, learnt,andsharedtogether.Weatewonderful Turkish food, watched beautiful sunsets over the sea, and swam in naturally hot volcanic waters.WevisitedmagnificentGreek,Roman, andByzantinearchaeologicalsites.Wewalked down ancient shopping streets, entered temples to Greek gods and Roman emperors, and imagined ourselves surrounded by the hustleandbustleofthesecitiesoftheRoman Empire.Othersiteswerequieter,theirstreets andbuildingslyinglargelyundisturbedunder thesoil,waitingtogiveuptheirtreasures.
InPergamum,acablecartookusuptotheAcropolis, thecitadelhighabovetheancientcity,renownedfor itsimmensewealth.HerewesawthesiteoftheAltar of Jupiter, shaped like an enormous white marble throne, as big as a house, big enough to enthrone Jupiter, or Zeus, King of the Gods. Was this ‘Satan’s throne’, mentioned in the letter to the church in Pergamum?
In Ephesus, we trod the same stones that St Paul walked on, and sat in the shade of the trees in the agora,themarketplacewherehesoldtents;wealso visitedthetheatrewherehecausedariotamongthe silversmithsandcraftsmenofthecity(Acts19).
The short letters framed as messages from Jesus to each of the seven churches all follow a set pattern. John writes ‘I know…’ I know your works, I know whereyouareliving,Iknowyourafflictions.Foreach church,therefollowforeachchurchwordsofpraise, forholdingfasttothegospel,fortheirgoodworks,or resisting false teaching; but—there’s always a but— then comes criticism, and John doesn’t hold back. Onlyoneofthesevenchurchesescapescriticism.
Each letter shows how well the author of Revelation knew these seven churches. Perhaps the most wellknown is the letter to the church in Laodicea. The author writes these words from Jesus: ‘I know your works; you are neither cold nor hot. I wish that you were either cold or hot. So because you are lukewarm, I am about to spit you out of my mouth. For you say, “I am rich, I have prospered, and I need nothing.” You do not realise that you are wretched, pitiable,poor,blind,andnaked.’
James told us that in Roman times, water from cool streams and hot volcanic springs was carried to Laodicea from the mountains by aqueducts and pipes. But by the time it reached the city, the hot water had cooled, and the cool water was no longer cold,soitwaslukewarm,liketheChristians.Laodicea wasfamousforitswealth,andforthinkingitselftobe self-sufficient.InAD60,ahugeearthquakeoccurred.
THE REVD WILL NEWMAN Text by / st
Rome offered help to rebuild the city, but Laodicea spurned imperial assistance, claiming theycouldrebuildbythemselves.Theythought, ‘I am rich, I need nothing.’ But from Christ’s pointofview,theyweretheopposite:theywere spiritually poor and wretched. Thus, the words of each letter come alive in the context of their timeandlocation.
Afterthecriticismineachlettercomesawarningtorepent,butalsowordsofencouragement. Even to the Laodiceans, Christ says, ‘Behold, I
stand at the door and knock; if you hear my voice and open the door, I will come in and eatwithyou.Andtotheonewhoconquers,I will give a place on my throne.’ What higher honourcouldtherepossiblybe?
The next day, most of the group flew on to Istanbul, where we spent another 3 days sightseeing.ThehighlightwasourvisittoHagia Sophia, now a mosque, but for almost a thousandyearsuntil1453,itwasthegreatestchurch in Christendom. We walked up the winding stepstothegallerytoseethebeautifulmosaics of Christ—partly damaged, yet still as colourful andinspiringaswhentheywerecreated.
Another memorable moment was the evening whenourhotel opened up the top-floorbarfor us, put on a tape of Turkish music,andbefore long,wewereallupanddancing!
At the end of a week based in Izmir and travelling out to the Seven Churches, we were warmly welcomed by James and the congregation(andCleopatra,thechurchcat!) atthelovelychurchofStJohntheEvangelist fortheirSundaymorningEucharist.
Onourlastafternoon,weenjoyedacruisein the sunshine, taking a boat up the Bosphorus,thenarrowchannelthatjoinsthe Black Sea with the Mediterranean, and separates Europe from Asia. At one point, there are only 600 yards between the two continents, providing us Hong Kong visitors with a fresh perspective on ‘East meets West’.
Wouldwegoagain?Wewould!
Playback Theatre Playback Theatre
Inavibrantcelebrationofcreativityandcommunity,the2024 Once Theatre Playback Theatre Youth Project captivated audiences with its unique blend of improvisational performance and heartfelt storytelling. This year’s production not onlyshowcasedtheremarkabletalentsoftheperformersbut also illuminated the profound power of shared experiences, resonatingdeeplywiththethemeofpeace.
Involving over 50 individuals—performers, volunteers, and LEC staff—this production became a rich tapestry of humanity. The Teens Playback Project allows audiences to share personal stories, which the performers bring to life in real time. In honour of the 175h anniversary of St John’s Cathedral and in alignment with the theme ‘Peace thatthe
WorldCannotGive’,OnceTheatreengagedusinajourneyofreflectionand connection. The accompanying creative arts workshops fostered selfunderstanding and provided young people with an essential outlet for expression,alleviatingstress,andbuildingconfidence.
As the performance unfolded, the background music—featuring raw instruments like maracas—added a layer of tranquillity to the experience. Beinginsidethecathedral,atruehomefortheparishioners,madetheevent even more special. The combination of evocative music and the sacred settingtransformedthegatheringintoanintimatecommunityexperience.
NATASHA
NGAN
Text by /
Photos by/ ALAN HU, AARON LUK& LEC STAFF
This year marked Once Theatre’s third production for LEC, representing a significant shift from traditional performance to deeper community engagement. In addition to the playback performance,theyouthorganisedanartexhibition,transforming their ideas of peace into expressive artwork. The playbackers embracedtheirroleswithrenewedpurpose,recognisingthatthe process and connections formed were as vital as the final presentation. Their journey began in June, involving five months of intensive training in expressive arts and personal growth workshops,wheremanyfacedchallenges,especiallythosenewto performance.Throughcollaborationandsupport,theylearnedto listenandnavigateconflicts,fosteringacohesivegroupdynamic. As over 180 audiences gathered at the second perfomance, the excitement transformed the performance into an unforgettable experience.
Aftertheshow,manyoftheyouthreflectedontheirgrowth,with one humorously noting a ‘360-degree change’ in confidence and perspective,promptinglaughterfromtheaudience.AlexNguyen, one of the youth performers, shared, ‘Everything about this project holds very important memories for my life. I remember that on the day of the performance, there was a typhoon, and I was really worried that the performance would be cancelled becauseofit.SoIprayedforthefirsttime:“Iftheperformancecan continue, I will join the Youth Ministry, Among Us”. I am grateful that God listened to my prayer and allowed me to meet the playbackersoftheOnceTheatre’.Thissentimentunderscoredthe lastingimpactoftheTeensPlaybackProject.
Vanice Chan, the supervisor of LEC, expressed her gratitude, stating, ‘It’s more than a show; it’s life influencing life’. She thanked all the sponsors and supporters, as well as the youth participants, particularly her colleagues Michelle and Rooney, emphasising that the project’s success was the result of a collectiveeffort.
TheDeanhighlightedthesignificanceof‘Shalom’,reinforcingthat true understanding requires active listening—a theme that resonated throughout the evening. Notably, Ms Barbara Chan, the well-knownactressinHongKong,attendedtosupporttheyouth. Shesharedherjourneyfromchurchdramatoacting,expressing how much the teens reminded her of her younger self and how movedshewasbytheperformance.
The presence of Archbishop Andrew Chan and Bishop Matthias Der further underscored the community spirit of the event. Audience feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with many noting that the unique format encouraged deeper listening—to themselves and to others. Key takeaways included phrases like ‘Tolistenistolove’,highlightingtheshow’sprofoundimpact.
AsIleftthecathedral,Icarriedwithmenotjusttheechoesofthe performances but a renewed sense of hope and connection. The 2024 Once Theatre Playback Theatre Youth Project beautifully illustratedthatpeaceisfoundnotonlyingrandgesturesbutalso in quiet moments of understanding and empathy. Through storytelling, we can nurture our community, foster healing, and createaworldwherethespiritofpeacethriveswithinusall.
The True Christmas Among Us
Christmas is just around the corner, are you ready for all the joy and festivities? Have you put up your Christmas tree, gotten all the presents for your friends and family, and confirmed plans for a wonderful Christmas dinner?
Now… before we get all hyped up about making sure everything is spot on, let us take a step back and think about what Christmas might truly mean. Is it just about celebration and fun?
With the ultimate gift list, a special tree ornament, or a nice cup of hot cocoa still in your hand, close your eyes and picture the year 1941 the very same Christmas day when some people in Hong Kong were likely less excited than you are, but were struggling to hold dear to their hearts the celebration of the birth of our Saviour, Jesus Christ—a day that turned out not exactly ‘jolly and holly’ for them at all.
Christmas in 1941 brought great terror to those seeking refuge at St Stephen’s College in Stanley, where a Red Cross hospital, the last British standout, and locals were stationed during World War II. A merciless massacre broke out when the Japanese slaughtered many of the wounded soldiers, teachers, and medical professionals residing in the college, leaving not blessings but condemnation for those who survived.
Matters did not stop there, as St Stephen’s then turned into an internment camp. Eyes still closed? Can you feel the anxiety, the loss of hope, or perhaps pick up a faint scent of fear? The site had been ransacked and stripped down to bare bones. Medical supplies and basic daily necessities began to run out.
Rather than simmer in despair, the detainees each took up a small part with a wish to make the most undesirable, a little more bearable. Medical officers negotiated with the Japanese army for more supplies, teachers set up classes for children, entertainers performed plays to lighten the ambiance, and, of course, priests gave sermons and held services.
Christmas did not end in one day for the little community at St Stephen’s College, but expanded into a whole season of kindness and resilience, for they had little idea then how long the days were going to be.
So, was 1941 a bit far away? Or maybe that was just an isolated incident? Do you recall what you were doing on the morning of Boxing Day, 2004? Were you buried in early unboxing under the Christmas tree, or suffering from a terrible hangover?
While we were probably busy being pleasantly distracted by our Christmas agendas, an undersea megathrust earthquake with a magnitude of 9.2 to 9.3 Mw, unprecedented in Indonesia, broke out on the west coast of northern Sumatra. Apart from instantly shattering nearby cities, the earthquake kicked up a massive tsunami with waves up to 30 meters in height, which struck 14 countries, killing at least some 230,000 people, and affecting millions of others. The earthquake and tsunami were reported to be the ‘deadliest natural disaster in recorded history’. Asian countries, including Hong Kong, quickly reacted and sent help and supplies to the rescue.
Peace and stability, or that hot cup of cocoa in your hand, are not promised gifts of Christmas If you remember, Jesus himself was not born exactly under ideal circumstances. He was under the persecution of King Herod, who ordered the killing of tens of thousands of innocent boys. The King further sent the three wise men to hunt Jesus down. However, the three wise men did not return to the King but chose to go the other way
Fancy a game??
Kindness for All
Maybe Christmas is not just about celebration but a reminder of a duty to bring peace or hospitality to the person next to you.
And it does not have to be something complicated!
Over this festive season, do go and say ‘Merry Christmas’ to the clergies (and everyone else!) at the Cathedral. Three selected clergies will each give you a hint to the location of a QR code placed somewhere on the Cathedral grounds that will reveal a little surprise for you!
Have a blessed season, and see you in 2025!
Text by /
InasignificantstepformentalhealthsupportinHong Kong,DrAlexWaiKiLihasbeenappointedasthenew Director of St John’s Cathedral Counselling Service. With nearly 15 years of experience in psychology and counselling,DrAlexbringsawealthofknowledgeanda deepcommitmenttoenhancingtheservice’soutreach and effectiveness. His doctorate degree from the University of Roehampton, along with registrations with esteemed professional bodies in the United KingdomandinHongKong,positionshimwelltolead the counselling service team in providing essential mentalhealthsupporttothecommunity.
Dr Alex’s journey in mental healthcare has seen him work in diverse settings, including schools, the National Health Service, and youth charities. Since joining St John’s Cathedral Counselling Service in 2015, he has focused on helping clients navigate challenges such as depression, anxiety, and burnout. His approach, grounded in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, is complemented by training in various therapeutic modalities.Beyondhisclinicalwork,DrAlexconductsspeaking events, workshops and supervises trainee counsellors and psychologists from a number of universities in Hong Kong, Canada, and Australia. This reflects and reinforces his commitment to mental health education and preparing the nextgenerationofpractitionersinthementalhealthfield.
Dr Alex Li
St John’s Cathedral Counselling Service NEW DIRECTOR OF
As Dr Alex steps into this new leadership role, his motivation stems from a deep dedication to the community. He aims to empower individuals towards emotional, social, and spiritual well-being. The Counselling Service, with over 40 years of experience, welcomes clients from all backgrounds, offering support in 14 languages. Dr Alex views his directorship as a natural progression in his career following his years of experience as the Lead Psychologist at the Counselling Service. He is confident to enhance the Counselling Service’s reach and effectivenessandtobringittoitsnextlevel.
The community faces pressing mental health challenges often relatedtorelationships,work,orfamilydynamics.Accordingto Dr Alex, many individuals resort to maladaptivebehavioursto
cope with negative emotions, leading to isolation and further difficulties.TheCounsellingServiceaimstohelpclientsmanage these emotions, fostering reconnection with loved ones and spiritualbeliefs.
Recognising the growing importance of mental health awareness,DrAlexplanstoexpandtheCounsellingService’soutreach throughworkshopsandcollaborationswithlocalorganisations. In 2025, the focus will be on addressing burnout, promoting resilience,andenhancingcommunityengagement.
WithintheCathedralsetting,faithandspiritualityplayintegral roles in the counselling process. While the service welcomes clientsofallbeliefs,manycounsellorsattheserviceincorporate Christian perspectives to support those who wish to explore their faith during therapy. This respectful approach allows clients to navigate their emotional experiences within the contextoftheirspirituality.
St John’s Cathedral Counselling Service prides itself on being accessible to all. With face-to-face sessions available in a welcoming office environment, clients can also opt for telehealthservices.Theteamisdedicatedtoprovidingasupportive atmosphereforanyoneseekinghelp.
As he embarks on this new chapter, Dr Alex emphasises the significance of mental health for everyone and encourages individuals to seek support from trained professionals. At St John’s Cathedral Counselling Service, all counsellors and psychologists are highly qualified, ensuring clients receive the best care. With a diverse team of over 45 counsellors and 10 psychologists,theservicestrivestomatchclientswiththeright counsellor or psychologist to aid their journey towards improvedmentalhealth.
Dr Alex’s appointment as the Director of St John’s Cathedral Counselling Service marks a promising new era for mental health support in the community. Through innovative programmes, compassionate care, and a focus on spiritual wellbeing,theCounsellingServiceispoisedtomakeanevengreater positiveimpactinHongKongunderhisleadership.
New Face at the cathedral office
Christine Tsang Administrative Assistant
We are delighted to welcome Christine, our new Administrative Assistant, to the St John’s Community! A recent graduate of Baptist UniversitywithadegreeinVisualArt,Christinebringsacreativeflair toourteam.Shehasakeeninterestinpaintingandenjoysexpressing herselfthroughherart.
Inherfreetime,sheenjoysreading,charityshopping,andjournaling, whichreflecthercreativespiritandloveforexploration.Hercheerful disposition and warm personality make her a welcoming presence withintheStJohn’sCommunity,wheresheiseagertocontributeand connectwithothers.
In October, St John’s Cathedral returned to the tradition of hostinganannualseriesofPublicLectures,featuringaseries offourlecturesdeliveredbytheVeryRevdCanonProfessor MartynPercy,HonoraryProvostTheologianoftheHKSKH.
‘ApocalypseNow’isaclassicVietnamWarfilmthatportrays thehorrorandfutilityofwar.Intheselectures,Martynledus into an apocalyptic world, exploring apocalyptic art, literature, and films that depict plague, war, the collapse of civilisation,andtheendoftheworldasweknowit.Theword ‘Apocalypse’linkstheselectureswiththeBookofRevelation intheBible,withitsgraphicimagesofdeathanddestruction on a huge scale, brought by the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse.
Historyisfulloftimeswhenpeoplebelievedtheywereexperiencingthe end of the world. War is one of the Four Horsemen. During the Cold War, we lived under the threat of nuclear annihilation. Older readers willremembertheCubanMissileCrisisin1962,whenpeople,certainly inEngland,literallydidn’tknowiftheywouldlivetoseeanotherday.In 18thcentury France, the price of a loaf of bread rose from 7% of a labourer’s daily wage to 92%. Faced with starvation, the result was revolution—the violent overthrow of the old order, the terror of the guillotine, and war in every corner of Europe—the end of the world as theyknewit.
Another of the Four Horsemen is Plague. We have all lived through Covid, but there have been far worse plagues. The Black Death swept acrossEuropeinthe1340sand50s,killingathirdofthepopulation.The devastationwassoterriblethatpeoplethoughtthiscouldbetheendof the human race. Plagues continued to afflict Europe for hundreds of years. A striking illustration showed the Three Kings, all with plague. And the famous Isenheim Altarpiece created by the German artist MatthiasGrünewaldin1512,showsChristcrucified,hisbodycoveredin blacksores,sharingwithhispeopletheterribledeathofthePlague.
Yet the plague could be halted. Plague came to the village of Eyam in Derbyshirein1665,andthevillagers,ledbytheirclergy,tookthebrave butterribledecisiontoquarantinethemselvesandnotleavethevillage.
For me, the most moving of Martyn’s lectures was the third, on Death. It’s a taboo subject in many cultures, including Chinese and English.Peopledon’ttalkaboutdeathanddying;theysaysomeone ‘passed’,oruseothereuphemisms.Butbydenyingdeathaplacein our public discourse, we find that when it happens, we don’t know how to deal with death, loss, and grief. And because we don’t talk about it, we may find that it’s too late to say what we wanted to those we love. Yet the Christian faith has something to offer. The Churchisaplacewhereyoucanbringyourgrief,pain,andloss,and findnotanswers,butlove,acceptance,andinclusion.AsTomLynch says, the priest who takes care over the funeral of a forgotten homeless man affirms the agreement between all God’s children thatwewillwitness,remember,andtakecareofeachother.
Martyn’s last talk was entitled Gloom, Doom, Prophecies—and Christian Hope. Where can we find Christian hope in the face of apocalypse?Ifwearelivingontheedge,whereishope?
TheBookofRevelationoffershopeinthepossibilityofanewheaven and a new earth, and an end to suffering. But Martyn has another answertoo:hopeliesincommunity,beingtogether.Thingshappen asaresultofgathering.Childreninvitedtochooseapictureoftheir ideal birthday party chose a picture of people of all ages gathered around a table to share food, rather than a child with a stack of presents. Ladies in an English village come together to make hot cross buns, creating an activity that creates a community where theylookoutandcareforeachother.IlovedMartyn’simageofbees flyingaroundagarden.Wethinktheyaremakinghoney,butinfact, they are cross-pollinating the flowers; honey is the consequence, notthegoal.
Saltisafertiliser.IfChristiansaresalt,thenhopeliesintheamount ofgoodnessandkindnessthatchurchgroupsputintothesoilofthe world around us. Our gathering, and the things that happen as a result,areourbestresponsetothepossibilityofapocalypse.
My Big Story Bible: The First Christmas
TomWright
A stunning, fully illustrated, and faithful retelling of the Christmas story by one of the world’s most popular Christian authorsTomWright.
In The First Christmas, the world-changing events of the nativity are accompanied by stunning and richly detailed illustrations.Thisbookisabeautifulgifttosharewithchildren andintroducesthemtothemiracleofthefirstChristmas.
Tom Wright is one of the world’s most popular Christian authors, and here he writes for younger children, aged 4-6 years,forthefirsttime.
What are we
reading?
Wow! Christmas: Creatively Explore Stories in the Bible
MarthaShrimpton
Awell-designed,colourful,andcreativeChristmasactivitybookfor children, families, and communities to connect with God and one another. Wow!Christmas explores six aspects of the birth of Jesus, including Jesus as the light of the world, the ordinary yet extraordinaryshepherds,thejourneyofthewisemen,thegivingofgifts, the excitement and anticipation of waiting for Christmas, and the reasonswhyChristmasissomethingtocelebrate.
Each story is accompanied by innovative activities, including engaging prayers, crafts, acting out scenes, time for reflection, discussionideas,andcreativepraise.
St Stephen’s College 22 Tung Tau Wan Road, Stanley
Christmas Eve
5.00pm Crib Service
11.00pm
Midnight Mass of the Nativity
Christmas Day 10.00am
Sung Eucharist
Tel: 2813 0408
Website:
Email: general@stjohnscathedral.org.hk
Dean
The Very Revd Kwok-keung Chan
Cathedral Chaplains
The Revd Canon Dwight dela Torre
The Revd Canon Peter Koon
The Revd Drew Courtright (Chaplain and Priest-in-Charge of Discovery Bay Church —effective from 1 January 2025)
The Revd Sharon Langbis
The Revd Robert Martin (Chaplain and Priest-in-Charge of Emmanuel Church)
The Revd Will Newman (Chaplain and Priest-in-Charge of St Stephen’s Chapel)
The Revd Amos Poon
Cathedral Honorary Chaplains
The Revd Dr Philip Wickeri
The Revd Polly Wong Heung-fong
Executive Administrator
Thomas Li
Director of Music
Felix Yeung
Assistant Director of Music
Alan Tsang
Organist
Jonathan Yip
Communications Officer
Natasha Ngan
Verger
Dicky Ko
Head Server
James Choo
Head Sidesman
Frank Lang
In Touch Editorial
Natasha Ngan - Designer & Editor
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Council Away Day
The Council Away Day took place on Saturday, 19 October at the historic St John’s College Chapel at Hong Kong University. The Council met to consider two topics. The first was on ‘Roles and Responsibilities of Council Members’. This address was deliveredbyCanonMosesCheng.Thesecondwason the ‘Theology and Culture of Hospitality and Welcome’bytheRevdWillNewman.
Canon Moses treated the subject of the corporate governance of St John’s Cathedral. The governance of the Cathedral is directed by two documents. The firstistheChurchofEnglandTrustordinancewhich specifiesthattheCouncil’sroleistoadvisetheDean of the Cathedral. The second is the canons of the Anglican church in Hong Kong known formally as the Canons of the Hong Kong Sheng Kung Hui. CanonMosesdirectedCouncilmembersattentionin particulartoarticles26and27oftheCanons.
CanonMosesurgedCouncilmemberstostudytheseCanons carefully. He cited for instance in Canon 26 these Members have spiritual duties including supporting the vicar in his pastoral care of the congregation, assisting the vicar in promoting missionary activities and spiritual growth and fellowshipamongthecongregation.
Article27henotedspecifiesthattheParish(ofwhichStJohn’s Cathedral and its daughter churches are one) are directed to be ‘self-sufficient’. This means that the parish should have ‘sufficientfundingtopayforandmaintainapermanentplace ofworshipforitscongregations’aswellas‘beresponsiblefor payingtheemolument’ofitspriests.
He pointed also in ‘sharing the blessings and love of Christ’ a Parish should set aside no more than 10% of its budget from thepreviousyearaspartofthecharityfundoftheParish.
HeleftMemberswithquestionstoponderonhowcanweupliftthe Cathedralasawhole;howcanweenrichthelifeofourcongregation; and can we heal the wounds of the community and around us; and whatcanweadvocatetoinspirepeople.
WilltoldCouncilmembersthattheCathedral’sfocusfor2025willbe ‘Hospitality and Welcome’. The way people experience Christians and the Church will either attract them towards God or push them away.Ifwearehonest,noteveryonewhocomesthroughourdoors experiences the kindness of a warm welcome. We should be hospitable to all, not because we are nice people, but because we follow Jesus, and we are called to welcome all people as we would welcomeChristhimself.
Whatisrequiredisnotjustanannualtheme,butachangeofculture. A deliberate effort to make St John’s a place of God’s grace. What would it mean if all of us at St John’s thought of ourselves as hosts, andtreatedallwhocomeasguests?
HeurgedCouncilmemberstoconsiderthesequestions: 175 years ago St John’s was planted in the heart of Hong Kong. What if we had a vision of the cathedral as that mustard seed, now grown into a great tree where people of all kinds find welcome,hospitality,andatouchofGod’sgrace? Whatcanwedotocreateacultureofgeneroushospitalityatthe heartofStJohn’sCathedral?
Council members benefitted from these two engaging speakers. TheylefttheChapelponderingthequestionsthatwereputtothem andwhichwillhelpdefinetheirworkoverthecomingyear.
